Singtel, in partnership with Enterprise Singapore (EnterpriseSG) and the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA), launched the Singtel Cyber Protect Programme, a strategic public-private collaboration to bolster the cyber resilience of Singapore’s small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Senior Minister of State for Digital Development and Information, Tan Kiat How, announced the partnership at the SMEs Go Digital Day 2025, in support of the Digital Enterprise Blueprint introduced in May 2024.
A study by the Cyber Security Agency of Singapore published in 2023 found that over 40% of companies surveyed suffered cybersecurity incidents multiple times a year, with 5% experiencing attacks several times daily. This has caused business disruption, data loss or reputational harm. Alarmingly, many firms still fall short of implementing essential security measures, adopting only around 70% of the recommended controls. SMEs are a frequent target, with three in five ransomware attacks in Singapore estimated to target them.
The Singtel Cyber Protect Programme was developed to uplift SMEs, empowering them to identify cyber risks, adopt stronger cyber hygiene practices, and enhance their overall security posture to better prevent cyberattacks. It also aims to reinforce Singapore’s overall digital competitiveness and economic resilience by helping SMEs innovate, scale faster and securely, as well as upskill their workforce.
Under the two-year programme, 49,000 SMEs will receive 12 months of complimentary Mobile Protect and Broadband Security, providing network-level protection for mobile devices and broadband connectivity with personalised threat reports. The programme comprises practical cybersecurity workshops to help SMEs defend against sophisticated threats. Singtel, EnterpriseSG and IMDA will fully subsidise the first year, with Singtel offering up to 50% discounts for second-year renewals.
The programme includes:
Mobile Protect – A network-level mobile security solution that leverages AI to identify and filter malicious URLs, protecting users from cyber threats. Each SME can deploy this service for up to five mobile lines.
Broadband Security – An advanced solution with built-in network protection that safeguards broadband users and connected smart devices from online threats. Limited to one sign-up per registered business.
Cybersecurity Learning Resources – Access to curated educational materials, toolkits, and a three-hour workshop (worth $400) to strengthen SMEs’ cyber risk awareness and build capabilities to anticipate, detect, respond to and recover from evolving threats.
Ng Tian Chong, CEO of Singtel Singapore, said, “Cyber threats are growing in scale and sophistication, and SMEs continue to be among the most vulnerable group – often targeted because they lack the resources and defences of larger organisations. With the Singtel Cyber Protect Programme, we’re making it easier than ever for SMEs to strengthen their resilience by giving them free access to affordable intelligent tools and cyber protection. Together with EnterpriseSG and IMDA, we’re empowering SMEs with affordable solutions and educational resources so they can pursue opportunities in the digital economy with confidence. This initiative underscores the importance of strong public-private partnership in uplifting SMEs’ capabilities and positioning them for long-term success.”
Geoffrey Yeo, Assistant Managing Director of Capabilities, Product & Policy, at Enterprise Singapore, said, “SMEs are the backbone of Singapore’s economy, representing the majority of our local enterprises. However, their smaller scale often means that they face resource constraints in critical areas such as building robust cybersecurity defences. Through this partnership with Singtel and IMDA, we will provide SMEs with foundational cyber security protection against online threats, helping them grow and compete effectively in an increasingly digital economy.”
Johnson Poh, Assistant Chief Executive, Sectoral Transformation Group, IMDA said, “For SMEs, cybersecurity is not an option but a necessity. It enables them to fully leverage digital technologies safely and securely when growing their businesses and exploring new opportunities. IMDA is pleased to partner with Singtel and EnterpriseSG to strengthen SMEs’ cybersecurity foundations, support their digital growth and help protect their customers. In today’s dynamic environment, resilience is built not only on innovation, but also on trust and security. This partnership between public and private sectors helps ensure our SMEs are ready to compete and thrive in the digital economy.”
